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Real Madrid started their season with a title, in the European Super Cup against Atalanta, then started La Liga with a draw against Mallorca (1-1) and a victory against Valladolid (3-0). The first matches were inevitably marked by the debut of Kylian Mbappé in his new colours. But if the Frenchman has not managed to shine for the moment, still being criticised after his match on Sunday afternoon, the problems encountered by the Madrilenians go well beyond the rather average performances of their new galactic.
Indeed, the team’s main problem so far seems to be in midfield. While Bellingham’s great performance in the second half against Atalanta somewhat masked the problems encountered in the first half, we have seen these problems again in the two Liga matches. A certain void thus exists between the midfield and the attack, with balls that sometimes have difficulty reaching the attacking players, who are forced to make the difference by moving out of the zone and going to get the ball quite low on the pitch.
The environment has taken a hit
Real Madrid have therefore lost creativity and forward projection with the departure of the German. We also feel a lack of control in midfield, with players like Tchouameni or Fede Valverde who have profiles that are not necessarily the best to control the game and dictate the tempo. The transmissions are less fluid and the ball comes out more slowly.
On the other side of the Pyrenees, observers do not fail to highlight this glaring absence. “Real Madrid is not working and there is a strong reason: the team is missing Toni Kroos”explains the SER chain. Carlo Ancelotti still has solutions, since even if Jude Bellingham (absent against Valladolid and for 3 more weeks, Editor’s note) has a more offensive profile than the German, he has the abilities to try to fulfill the tasks carried out by the former Bayern player. The same goes for a player like Eduardo Camavinga. But that could take time, and we know that in La Liga, any point lost is a blow in the race for the title…
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.